5.6.4

Childcare Facilities for Students

The University of Thessaly (UTh) ensures that students with children have equitable access to education by offering childcare support services and family-friendly study conditions. Recognizing that student parents face unique challenges, the University provides practical assistance through campus childcare facilities and partnerships with local authorities.

Purpose and Strategic Framework

This policy aims to:

Enable students with young children to continue their education without interruption.

Promote gender equality and educational inclusivity, particularly for women and single parents.

Provide affordable, safe, and high-quality childcare within or near university premises.

Align with SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and Greek Law 4808/2021.

Scope

Applies to:

All undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students who are parents or guardians of children under six (6) years of age.

University departments and services responsible for student welfare, social policy, and infrastructure.

Key Provisions

On-Campus Childcare Access

The University will maintain or support childcare facilities within campus areas, ensuring accessibility for student parents.

When on-campus capacity is limited, the University will establish agreements with local childcare centers to secure access for students.

Priority and Financial Support

Priority will be given to:

Single-parent students,

Low-income families, and

Students enrolled in full-time study programmes.

The University will subsidize or cover fees through municipal cooperation or EU-funded programmes.

Academic Flexibility

Student parents using childcare services shall have access to:

Flexible scheduling,

Alternative examination arrangements, and

Remote learning options, as needed.

Health, Safety, and Quality

Childcare facilities must adhere to national health and safety regulations, providing a safe and stimulating educational environment.

Qualified childcare professionals will oversee daily operations.

Monitoring and Governance

The Student Welfare Office and School of Education will jointly manage childcare operations.

Annual evaluations will review:

Utilization rates,

User satisfaction,

Academic outcomes of student parents.

Review

This policy will be reviewed biennially, ensuring continuous adaptation to the evolving needs of student parents and national childcare regulations.

Childcare Facility at Gaiopolis Campus